2012 Tribathletes

Our Tribathletes are extraordinary people we are proud to call family.

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2012 Tribathletes

Our Tribathletes are extraordinary people we are proud to call family.

Every month, since the day we first opened, we have been nominating Tribathletes and posting their profiles and Q&A's on our website. We are proud of our Tribe and ll those who call our Tribe home and we want to show them off to the world. They are the best of us. They're just like you!!! The ranks of our Tribathletes are filled with mothers, fathers, college athletes, accountants, teachers, professional paint ball players, firemen, students, teens, to just name a few. They are not necessarily our best athletes, nor are they our most vocal. They're not always our strongest, fastest, or most well conditioned.

Our Tribathletes are our inspiration. They are inspiration. They are the best example of what our Tribe is about and they are the light that shines our way and sustains our mission.

Mariza B.

December 2012

Mariza B.

December 2012

The last TribAthlete of the year, BUT certainly not least, is a lady who is at the epitome when it comes to hard work, dedication to perfection, beauty and power, and humility! Just to give you an idea of how humble she is, it took us a couple days to convince her to be this month's TribAthlete! She could hardly believe that she was worthy to be put alongside other past honorees! Regardless, of what she thought (or still thinks), she has a lot to be proud of. Despite being one of the smallest women in the Tribe, she pushes harder than men twice her size and is always up for any challenge! For example, during deadlift and oly lifting days, as the weight starts to get heavy, she is always the first one to say, "Let's do it!" Not 'try', but 'do'! And more often than not, she does...all with a big a$$ smile on her face! It's that small, but important, nuance in her mentality that has led to her success & made her one of the women to chase at our box! When she first came to the tribe, she couldn't even do a push-up and thought pull-ups weren't even possible! Today she bangs out push-ups like a pro & is one of only a handful of women in the box who can do kipping pull-ups!

Congrats Riza! All your success is truly deserved!

When did you start at CrossFit SoCal Tribe?I officially started at the end of January 2012

When did you start CrossFitting? How/why did you choose to CrossFit?A year ago, my friend Rachel told me about CrossFit. She said “I think you’ll really like it. You’ll want to go every day and on the days you can’t make it, you’ll feel disappointed.” I thought “yeah right!” Jay was more proactive about it and decided to do some research. He found out that they were doing CrossFit at a park just a few miles away. Enter CrossFit SoCal Tribe.I went to the park a couple of times & got crazy sore for over a week both times. I came back a few months later, tried it for a week when the new box opened, and got hooked. Rachel was right. I look forward to every WOD (no matter how crazy it looks) and I get sad when I have to miss days.

What is your favorite thing about CrossFit SoCal Tribe?The people.

As I sit here & type this, all I can think about is how each person gives so much of themselves every time they enter the box. Each tribe member has their own story. It is such a privilege to get to know them. As I learn more about them, I am amazed by their stories- their motivations, their goals, their strengths &challenges, their lives outside CrossFit. I come to get a good workout and leave with much, much more- encouragement, friendship, therapy, entertainment, and love (corny, I know, but true).

What role have your family/friends played in your CrossFit journey?My husband is my rock. He encourages me every day and always says he’s proud of me. He is the strongest, most humble person I know. He is my greatest inspiration and motivator. It’s the best feeling having him by my side through my CrossFit journey and in life. The more fit I am, the longer I may live. That means more days spent with him. And I like that.

hat role have your fellow SoCalTribers played in your success?I get very emotional thinking about how much support I get from my fellow SoCalTribers. I am overwhelmed by the encouragement and positivity I get from each and every one of them. They help me believe in myself. They challenge and motivate me, telling me “you’re a lot stronger than you think.” And because of their words, I’ve done things that have made me realize “WOAH! I AM stronger than I think!”

I want to name EVERYONE and write about how much they have helped me. Alas, that would take up A LOT of space. Just know that if you’ve ever talked to, yelled at, hugged, high-fived, or given me that “you got this!” eye contact, you’ve been a part of my success. We truly are a family.I have to give a special shout out to my ladies of the Tribe. We are getting stronger, faster, and sexier by the day! I am proud of how we push each other to be better & carry one another on those tough days (you know what I’m talkin’ about). We recognize each others’ strengths and come to class determined to chase ‘that’ person, whoever it may be that day. We are confident enough to celebrate each others’ successes as more women in this world should do.

avorite WOD/Skill?There’s so many to choose from… I guess if I HAD to pick a fave: Clean & Jerks…and handstands!

east favorite WOD or skill (your “Goat”)?Wall balls. So much wall. Big ol’ball.

iggest challenge so far (in CrossFit or nutrition)?I love food. Food is great. My biggest challenge is food intake- meaning I like to take in food… a lot of food. I’m still working on figuring out when I’m full. With the Paleo challenges and Coach K’s guidance, I was able to change my mindset about real food. Coach K has been instrumental in helping me recognize what my body needs and enjoys. I see the connection between what I eat and how I look & feel. I’ve been able to maintain better eating habits. During the week, it’s easier to eat strict paleo. The weekends and vacations are a different story and I’d like to work on being more consistent because it DOES make a difference and I do feel better all around.

roudest accomplishment so far (in CrossFit or nutrition)?This is something personal I shared with my team during my first Paleo Challenge and a reason why CFST is more than just a workout for me. Through the years, my husband and I have had challenges with several unsuccessful pregnancies. Needless to say, it took a toll on me physically. With each loss, my weight would fluctuate and it was difficult to maintain a consistent diet & exercise regimen. During this time, I was told eat this, don't eat that, exercise, don't exercise, etc. I was being cautious all the time... just in case. This past summer we tried again & I had to stop CrossFitting. Again, the process was unsuccessful. With all we’ve been through, I have been able to stay strong emotionally. My proudest accomplishment so far is that this time, I stayed strong physically and was able to maintain a healthy self. I started CrossFitting soon after & ate well.

Through all this, I have not lost hope. I have gained more strength and a greater appreciation of what I’m capable of as a woman and maybe one day as a mother.

est experience at part of CFST?CrossFit for Hope was memorable. Everyone worked so hard for something greater than themselves. And though we don’t have the most members, we were able to raise over $22,500! To this day, I’m in awe of everyone’s generosity and heart.

avorite quote or motto?Count your blessings. "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."Jeremiah 29:11.

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.” 1 Corinthians 13:4–8.

ho at CFST do you look up to, respect or admire and why?I have great respect for the all the coaches at CFST. A year ago, I couldn’t do a push-up, double-unders, HSPU’s or even attempt a pull-up. Because of them, I’m doing these things I never imagined I could do. Their style of coaching has given me the confidence to try new things. They continue to help me develop good form and gain strength. Warren and Ed, thank you for doing what you love. It is your passion and commitment that has made CFST what it is. It is because of you that many of us are the healthiest we’ve ever been. I am grateful.

I admire the Tribe members who are parents. When they come to the box, they’re beasts! Then, they go home and are moms & dads who cook, clean, help with homework, don’t sleep, etc. That is dedication.

When you think it’s tough, difficult or impossible, what keeps you going?During a WOD, I try to stay as focused as I can (even during my dance breaks). As Jamie says, I become a different person (à la Sasha Fierce). I visualize what I want to do and how I’m going to do it. I hear Coach K’s voice saying “don’t stop moving!” I hear fellow Tribers saying “You got this!” I feel everyone’s energy around me and I HAVE to keep going. (Also, sometimes it’s the music.)

What’s in store for your fans? Future goals?Bikini photo shoot with the ladies of the Tribe. And of course, more hugs, noises, laughing and dancing.

Your message to readers:No more excuses! Eating well CAN be delicious and satisfying. Working out CAN be enjoyable. Find something that literally moves you. If you’re even a little curious about CrossFit, try it. It may be the thing that makes you WANT to workout, that makes you stronger inside & out, that makes you the sexiest you ever. Now THAT’s totally worth it!

Regardless of how you choose to be healthy, remember that there are people who love you and need you to be here in this world. Don’t wait. Start now. 3-2-1… GO!

JP & Sherry J.

November 2012

JP & Sherry J.

November 2012

This month we honor yet another amazing Tribal Power Couple - Sherry & JP! With kids and busy careers, these two are examples of the kind of results you can achieve with focused, hard work and dedication. When it comes to form and technique, we rarely have to correct them more than once, but they also work hard at it to get it perfect. One time, Sherry even asked us to borrow some weights so she could practice her form at work. They may not be the loudest and most vocal leaders in the box, but they are truly leaders by example. They don't complain (much) and come in everyday ready to work hard, and it shows in their results. During their short time with us, they have impressed us with their strength gains and vastly increased work capacity during workouts. Another truly deserving and amazing couple!

Congrats you two!

hen did you start at CrossFit SoCal Tribe?herry - I signed up with CFST in April 2012 but took one and a half month off in between.JP - April of 2012 - that was PRE newbie fundamental classes. We WOD'd with the crew. The day included strict pull ups, burpees, spiderrman crawls, farmers carry (45DBs) and burpee broad jumps up around the block. I was hurting for a month!

When did you start CrossFitting? How/why did you choose to CrossFit?herry - I started CrossFit with JP last April. JP had mentioned it to me in the past and always tried to encourage me to try it. With being so busy with the kiddos, I really didn’t have any time for it. I was also a bit intimidated, but I thought to myself, “why not try it, I have nothing to lose; at least I tried!” We went on and did 3 half marathons which gave me a little bit of confidence, then I finally I agreed. At the same time, after bearing 4 children, it was so easy to gain weight and I felt like I was getting old fast. I thought to myself, I would love to be the sexy, pretty wife or maybe even a MILF hehehe…CrossFit might be it..I’m glad I joined!JP - I started CrossFitting the moment I stepped foot at SoCal Tribe. I chose CrossFit because of the challenge it presented both physically and mentally, and the results it delivered. No pain, no gain! I chose CrossFit because I had to change my lifestyle. I got addicted to cigarettes at young age and smoked for over 17 years. I stopped in Jan of 2011 thanks to my wife's support, running and now CrossFit, I am able to stay off of it. (nicotine patches too! ughk.) I choose to CrossFit because I see the enormous benefits it has to offer and I want to pass on the healthy, active lifestyle to my young children.

hat is your favorite thing about CrossFit SoCal Tribe?Sherry - I love the camaraderie that this box has. I love how the coaches are there to support, push, and just be a friend. I love that everyone is so welcoming when you’re that new person walking into that door! And don’t forget the members, wow, I can go on and on….two words: “PURE AWESOMENESS!!!”JP - The camaraderie. The 'Tribe' family environment. I have forged some great friendships in the short 6 months. Its a melting pot of smart, driven, strong, competitive, determined, talented chefs... and how can i forget, beautiful people. Yea, we have a great dynamic of awesome people in our box! Last but certainly not least, the coaches. You guys have been tremendous in helping a lot of us realize our potential. Thank you.

What role have your family/friends played in your CrossFit journey?Sherry - My family has been very supportive about CrossFit, especially my husband and our kids. JP, well, he never doubted me from the get go. He always tells me and it never fails, “I’m so proud of you babe!” (even if I didn’t do so well during the wods or strengths). Not only is he a gift from God, but he is such a great person, my BFF, my ro-dawg, my sunshine, my happiness, and the love of my life. The kids—AJ (18y/o) he totally brags to his friends, “yeah my mom does CrossFit! ”; Adrial (15y/o) willingly watches his little siblings while I’m gone for that 1 whole hour just to crossfit and also brags about mom; Kailani (4y/o) everytime we pass by the box, she asks, “mom, who’s teaching the class today; is it Warren?? Is it Ed?? Or maybe it’s K???” What 4 year old even cares who’s teaching crossfit today, mine does:); Kale (2y/o) when we are rolling out at home or simply doing push-ups, he comes next to us and imitates what we are doing (future CrossFitter in the making!) I wouldn’t ask for anything more.JP - My family and friends, not so much. Its more of me preaching and teaching CrossFit during family gatherings. BUT my partner in crime aka killah smalls aka wifey... she has had a huge role in my Crossfit journey. (she doesnt realize it though.) Not only does she push me to wake up at 5a, but watching her skills and strength develop has driven me further knowing that together we have chosen the right path for our future.

hat role have your fellow SoCalTribers played in your success?Sherry -They are always so supportive!! Even if you’re the last to finish the WOD, they are there to cheer you on and make you feel like a winner (trust me I’ve finished last many times that it’s almost embarrassing). After we were asked to be the November Tribathletes/power couple, I asked, “are we even worthy of it?” And of course, with a smile, Warren said yes!!!! It is such an honor to be chosen. Wow, I couldn’t stop talking about it and still in disbelief to this day…I am so thrilled and excited!!!! Thank you for believing in me :)JP - There is no "I" in TRIBE! Oh wait, there is. Although all of us have different fitness goals, one thing is common; we cheer, support and fight for one other.. like a TEAM. Luv y'all! Blood, Sweat and PRs baby! Watching my fellow SoCal Tribers push, tackle that last round, fight for that last rep, drowning in sweat, making what seems impossible possible - man, that motivates the heck out of me to give it everything I got. There is nothing like being surrounded by my SoCal Tribers while in the midst of an epic battle with a WOD.

avorite WOD/Skill?Sherry - My fave is the deadlift!JP - I enjoyed the BEAST 12. Its grueling, it puts all of your CrossFit skills to the test and it hurts like a B&^%#@!! But my favorite WOD is the SoCal Triblet - it was my first RX'd (prescribed) WOD - a sentimental favorite and will always be my own personal benchmark.

east favorite WOD or skill (your “Goat”)?Sherry - The infamous burpees, wall balls, handstands, and kettlebell swingsJP - The one that sticks out... Karen - 150 wall balls. Oh and the dumbbell clean squats, oh and L-sits... I hate them all the same, but I love to work on them!

iggest challenge so far (in CrossFit or nutrition)?Sherry - My biggest challenge is perfecting my form; and hopefully to RX on more WODs!! I wish I had time to go to open gym to practice, unfortunately, mommy-duty is a priority. But I am a CrossFitter in the making.JP - Eating has been a big challenge for me. Some of my favorite eats are pizza and I love a good burger, with buns! But with some discipline and a lot of help from my wife, I have been able to tame my inner fatboy. With her paleo cooking and prepping, I’m able to eat better!

roudest accomplishment so far (in CrossFit or nutrition)?Sherry - I never thought I can do the things you guys ask us to do like lift weights, climb ropes, the different strengths and WODs etc.That alone is a great accomplishment for me not to mention beating my hubby on WODs at times hehe!!JP - Becoming a Tribathlete of the month! It is very humbling to be recognized by your coaches, the people you respect and look up to. Thank you Coach W & Coach Ed! It's truly an honor.

est experience at part of CFST?Sherry - I love how we are a group of people with different backgrounds but yet act like we are one family. I love how I am able to do things I’ve never done before like lifting weights, push-ups, etc. This tribe is amazing!JP - So many.. cant keep track. Recently, it would have to be conquering Cindy with Coach W and the 6a crew cheering us on! Shout out to my morning crew! I do remember another experience, not necessarily the best one, but a funny one. It was a morning WOD that included front squats, pull ups and another apparatus... 3,2,1 the clock beeps and off we WOD.. I get in rack position and descend on my squats, out of nowhere..RIIIPP! My shorts rip at the seam! I yelled, "oh s#!&.. I ripped my pants." Coach W laughing in the background, I couldnt stop to ASSes the damage and knowing i was a timed WOD. I continued and finished the WOD, with my ripped shorts. True story. haha.

avorite quote or motto?Sherry -“Hakuna Matata” and “Live your life like there is no tomorrow.”JP - "Hard work beats talent, when talent refuses to work hard."

ho at CFST do you look up to, respect or admire and why?Sherry - I admire my husband JP. I love how he has the will power to succeed and never gives up. When we’re home, he’s always doing something that is CrossFit related like stretching, polishing up on his form, and just trying to be better. He never gives up on me and never lets me down. The coaches:Warren- I always tell him, “you scare me” as he stares at me and makes sure my form is correct while my stomach is growling that I don’t know whether I should throw up or fart out of fear.Ed- same effect as warren but in a sweeter and calmer voice. Someone that you never want to piss off or else.K-the sweet, sexy lady, always with a smile and open arms.JP - My wife, she is a mini WOD killah in the making. She works nights, cooks and preps our meals and gets it all done with a smile. I’m very blessed. The coaches, thank you for always keeping us in check with our form and technique, calling us out when necessary and getting on our @$$es when we’re slacking. You guys flippin rock! All YOU SoCal Tribers!! My SoCal Tribe fam. Finding the time out of your busy, hectic lives to endure one hour of physical and mental punishment.. y'all must be gluttons for pain!! YOU all deserve the love and respect! But really though, it takes a lot to do what we do on top of life and work. Represent Tribe! (Pat self on back.)

When you think it’s tough, difficult or impossible, what keeps you going?Sherry - My family and my health! I would love to stay healthy and live as long as I can with JP. I want to see the kids grow up to be successful, have a family, and produce many grandkids. I would love to travel the world and see all the beautiful places. To live longer is to stay healthy.JP - The coaches always tell us that its a mental thing. I learned quickly to block out, erase the option of not finishing.I focus on what I need to get done and formulate a strategy and I stick to it. When it starts to hurt, weight becomes extra heavy, legs feel like spaghetti, lightheaded feeling... I tell myself, "The sooner you get through this, the sooner the pain stops." and I yell at myself inside my head... GO !&%@#$er! The thought of defeating the WOD and how good it will feel after drives me to finish strong.

What’s in store for your fans? Future goals?Sherry - My goal is to hopefully RX on all the WODS slowly but surely. I maybe a mother of 4, work full time nights, and short, but I have a big heart that is contagious and can overcome any obstacle that’s worth tackling. (And yes even those burpees, yuck!)JP - Well, I am looking forward to smashing Spartan Race in December and conquering the Tough Mudder 2013 with the Tribe in February. Come out and support us! Also, I would like to follow the footsteps of those before me and become a Crossfit coach. I have work to do, but I’m committed to the Crossfit life and I would love to someday have the opportunity to help others grow their Crossfit skills!

Your message to readers:Sherry - Do not be afraid to try something new…. And to all the mothers out there, if I can do it, you can definitely do it tooJP - Simple… Thank you. Thank you for the support, guidance, pick me ups, cheer and challenge. Blood, Sweat and PRs baby! It’s an honor WODing with y’all. Enough reading, let’s WOD!